ESSENTIAL Synonyms: 191 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'essential' different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of essential are cardinal , fundamental , and vital . While all these words mean "so important as to be indispensable," essential implies belonging to the very nature of a thing and therefore being incapable of removal without destroying the thing itself or its character. // conflict is essential in drama

Q: When could 'cardinal' be used to replace 'essential'?

While in some cases nearly identical to essential , cardinal suggests something on which an outcome turns or depends. // a cardinal rule in buying a home

Q: When is 'fundamental' a more appropriate choice than 'essential'?

While the synonyms fundamental and essential are close in meaning, fundamental applies to something that is a foundation without which an entire system or complex whole would collapse. // fundamental principles of algebra

Q: When would 'vital' be a good substitute for 'essential'?

The words vital and essential are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, vital suggests something that is necessary to a thing's continued existence or operation. // cut off from vital supplies

essential 1 of 2

adjective

i-ˈsen(t)-shəl

Definition of essential next

as in necessary

impossible to do without a well-stocked public library is essential for the well-being of a community

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in basic

of or relating to the simplest facts or theories of a subject anyone with an essential knowledge of human biology can follow the documentary

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in integral

being a part of the innermost nature of a person or thing an unquenchable belief in the essential goodness of most people

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

essential

2 of 2

noun

as in must

something necessary, indispensable, or unavoidable the essentials for success include a willingness to work and the right attitude

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in principles

essentials plural general or basic truths on which other truths or theories can be based this will be just an introduction to the essentials of computer programming

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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an essential role

a necessary role

a crucial role

an imperative role

a vital role

an integral role

essential information

critical information

fundamental information

useful information

primary information

precious information

an essential element

a key element

a requisite element

a major element

a main element

an important element

Synonym Chooser

How is the word essential different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of essential are cardinal, fundamental, and vital. While all these words mean "so important as to be indispensable," essential implies belonging to the very nature of a thing and therefore being incapable of removal without destroying the thing itself or its character.

conflict is essential in drama

When could cardinal be used to replace essential?

While in some cases nearly identical to essential, cardinal suggests something on which an outcome turns or depends.

a cardinal rule in buying a home

When is fundamental a more appropriate choice than essential?

While the synonyms fundamental and essential are close in meaning, fundamental applies to something that is a foundation without which an entire system or complex whole would collapse.

fundamental principles of algebra

When would vital be a good substitute for essential?

The words vital and essential are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, vital suggests something that is necessary to a thing's continued existence or operation.

cut off from vital supplies

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of essential

Adjective

Each recipe, the release adds, features essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants and are free from grains, gluten, carrageenan, corn, soy, artificial colors and flavors, preservatives and animal byproducts. —

Nicholas Rice, People.com, 8 Feb. 2025 Without income during this critical period, many are forced to continue working through pregnancy or skip essential prenatal care appointments or tests, which can jeopardize both the mother’s and the child’s health. —

Rebecca L. Palmer, Orlando Sentinel, 8 Feb. 2025

Noun

Coach Day Tote Bag Best Amazon Fashion Deals Winter closet essentials and year-round staples are majorly marked down in the fashion department. —

Clara McMahon, People.com, 1 Feb. 2025 Of course, the essentials like groceries, hygiene and cleaning products aren't part of the rule—and spending for emergencies is also fine. —

Dan Perry, Newsweek, 31 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for essential

Recent Examples of Synonyms for essential

Adjective

The forecasts can seem effortless, but behind the scenes, a vast network of satellites, airplanes, radar, computer models and weather analysts are providing access to the latest data – and warnings when necessary.

— Christine Wiedinmyer, The Conversation, 11 Feb. 2025
Hegseth's memo directs the Army to inform the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment of the timeline and necessary resources for the implementation of the change.

— Eleanor Watson, CBS News, 10 Feb. 2025